Key information
The velvet scoter is a black seaduck. It has a long bill, a thick neck and a pointed tail. In flight, it shows a white patch on the rear of the wing - this can also be seen when birds sitting on the sea flap their wings. This Schedule 1 species does not breed in the UK, but is a winter visitor to the east coast, especially in Scotland, Norfolk and north-east England. The large flocks in winter are vulnerable to oil pollution and depleted fish stocks.
What they eat:
Shellfish, crabs, sea urchins, fish and insect larvae.
Measurements:
- Length:
- 52-59cm
- Wingspan:
- 90-99cm
- Weight:
- 1.1-2kg
Population:
- UK wintering:
- 2,500 birds
Identifying features:
Velvet scoter
